Chestnuts: The Powerful Nut with Amazing Health Benefits You Shouldn't Miss

Improves Digestion

Research shows that chestnut extract has a protective effect on the probiotics in the digestive system. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain gut health and improve the digestion process.

Additionally, chestnuts are rich in fiber. Fiber helps alleviate constipation, promotes a feeling of long-lasting fullness, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and strengthens beneficial gut bacteria.

Contains Antioxidants

In addition to being a good source of vitamins and minerals, chestnuts are rich in antioxidants, including tannins, alkaloids, lutein, ellagic acid, and gallic acid.

According to a study conducted in 2010 by the Biotechnology Department at Chosun University in Korea, chestnut flower extract has strong antioxidant properties and even protects the body from damage caused by melanoma. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize harmful free radicals. These free radicals can cause cell damage and contribute to chronic diseases.

Research suggests that some antioxidants in chestnuts, such as ellagic acid, help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin balance, reducing the risk of developing diabetes.

Many whole foods, fruits, and vegetables contain antioxidants. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like chestnuts may help prevent various diseases.

Protects the Heart

Certain types of chestnuts have a protective effect on the heart. This protective effect is due to the antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

In addition, chestnuts are rich in potassium. This important mineral reduces some of the underlying factors that contribute to heart disease. According to research, increasing potassium intake lowers blood pressure and even reduces the risk of stroke by up to 24%. If you have heart problems, consider including chestnuts in your diet.

Strengthens Bones

Just 10 chestnuts provide 50% of the daily manganese requirement. This mineral is essential for the normal functioning of cells. According to some studies, manganese may also play a key role in bone health and protect the body from certain diseases. Research shows that nearly 43% of manganese is stored in the bones. Consuming this nutrient, combined with other bone-strengthening minerals, helps prevent bone loss, especially in older women.

Including a serving of chestnuts in your diet, along with other bone-boosting nutrients, helps keep bones strong and prevents osteoporosis.

Improves Brain Function

Chestnuts are rich in several B vitamins, including thiamine, vitamin B6, riboflavin, and folate. These vitamins are essential for maintaining brain health and protecting against diseases. A deficiency in any of these B vitamins can lead to cognitive issues. For example, a deficiency in thiamine may result in delirium, while a lack of folate disrupts brain development in children.

In a 2016 study, elderly participants took folic acid for one year. Folic acid improved cognitive performance while also reducing some inflammation markers.

Another study published in the journal Nutrition found that increased B vitamin intake was associated with improved cognitive performance in elderly participants with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.

To ensure adequate B vitamin intake and boost brain health, consume protein-rich foods and include chestnuts in your daily diet.